Michael Colreavy (Sligo-North Leitrim, Sinn Fein)
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I thank Mr. Dunning and his officials. As this is just my second meeting, I may ask questions that have been asked previously.

I very much welcome the national broadband plan. It is achievable and has the potential to do much to bridge the urban-rural divide, but it will require a mix of technologies. Deputy Michael Moynihan mentioned the gap analysis. I know the findings of previous gap analyses did not reflect what was happening on the ground because it was not in the interests of some companies to reflect exactly what was happening. What parameters will apply to the analysis and how will we determine the areas in which direct government intervention will be required?

I take at face value that what is set out in the plan will be achieved within the timescales outlined. However, is there any unit of the Department looking at State use of the technology available? I sometimes refer to our use of technology as being like building a very good road but continuing to cycle instead of taking a car - it might be good for the environment and better for our health, but it does not get us to work any faster. Is the Government - local, State and semi-State bodies - exploiting the technology available to the fullest extent? There are huge savings to be made, for example, in terms of paperless offices. Are we making full use of technology and maximising the savings in terms of Exchequer spending?